Eat the Rainbow - Color Orange

Consuming veggies and fruits that have an orange color can be very beneficial. These items contain many antioxidants and carotenoids including Beta-cryptoxanthin, beta-carotene, and alpha-carotene. The body coverts these into vitamin A, a nutrient important for vision, immunity, skin and bone health. Some also have high levels of vitamin C, and some contain omega-3 fatty acids. Orange produce can help protect your eyes from cataracts, have anti-inflammatory properties, help with blood sugar regulation, as well as help prevent some types of cancers particularly of the lung, esophagus, and stomach.  Just a few of these fruits and veggies include: Carrots, mangos, cantaloupe, squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and apricots. Tips for increasing orange in your diet: Cut sweet potatoes into wedges and bake with a little olive oil and ground cinnamon for homemade sweet potato fries. Puree cooked squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes for a winter/fall inspired soup Cut an apricot in half and sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg. Bake until soft and top with low fat vanilla frozen yogurt or low fat whipped cream.